DPF Delete Parts Checklist: Everything You Need for a Complete Delete (Ram, Ford & Duramax)
Don't Buy Half a Delete
Here's a mistake we see every week: someone orders a delete pipe, crawls under their truck, and realizes they're missing a flange gasket. Or a block-off plate. Or the right tuner cable. Then the truck sits on jack stands for three days while they wait for shipping.
This checklist covers every part you need for a complete DPF/CAT/EGR delete — organized by platform — so you order once and install once.
The Core Components: What Every Delete Needs
Regardless of which diesel truck you own, a proper delete requires four categories of parts:
| Category | Part | Why You Need It |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Delete Pipe | DPF/CAT delete pipe or race pipe | Replaces the factory DPF and catalytic converter. This is the core of the delete. |
| 2. Tuner | EFI Live, EZ Lynk, or HP Tuners | Reprograms the ECM to prevent limp mode, check engine lights, and regen cycles. |
| 3. Block-Off Plates | EGR block-off kit | Seals the EGR cooler ports after removal. Prevents coolant and exhaust gas leaks. |
| 4. Hardware & Consumables | Gaskets, clamps, hardware, anti-seize | Fresh gaskets prevent leaks. New clamps ensure proper torque. Anti-seize stops galvanic corrosion. |
Platform-Specific Parts Checklist
2019-2024 Ram 6.7L Cummins
- Delete Pipe: 4" DPF/CAT delete pipe with flanges. The Ram's factory exhaust uses a V-band clamp at the turbo outlet and a slip-fit at the mid-pipe. Make sure your pipe includes both flange types. Our 4" Ram Delete Pipe comes with all flanges pre-welded.
- Tuner: EFI Live AutoCal V3 with CSP5 switching (on-the-fly tune selection) or EZ Lynk Auto Agent 3.0. Ram ECMs on 2019+ models typically require bench unlock before tuning — budget $200-400 extra.
- EGR Kit: Full EGR delete kit with cooler block-off plates and coolant bypass hose. The Ram's EGR cooler is mounted on the passenger side of the engine and requires draining ~2 gallons of coolant.
- Gaskets: Turbo outlet V-band gasket (OEM p/n 68148987AA), two 4" flange gaskets.
- Optional: 5" full exhaust upgrade for maximum flow. Our 5" Ram Full Exhaust pairs perfectly with the delete pipe.
2017-2025 GM Duramax L5P
- Delete Pipe: 4" DPF/CAT race pipe with OEM-style flanges. The L5P uses a 4-bolt flange at the downpipe connection and a band clamp at the mid-pipe. Our L5P 4" Race Pipe is precision-fit for 2017-2025 models.
- Tuner: HP Tuners MPVI3 with GM ECM unlock service. L5P ECMs are locked from the factory and require physical ECM removal and bench unlock. Budget $500-800 for unlock + credits.
- EGR Kit: L5P-specific EGR delete with throttle valve delete plate. The L5P's intake throttle valve will throw codes if not addressed.
- Downpipe: The factory L5P downpipe is restrictive. Consider upgrading to a 3.5" downpipe while you're in there. Our 3.5" L5P Downpipe drops EGTs by 150-200°F.
- Gaskets: Downpipe flange gasket (OEM p/n 12665594), two 4" exhaust gaskets.
2011-2023 Ford 6.7L Powerstroke
- Delete Pipe: 4" DPF/CAT delete pipe. Ford uses a unique 2-bolt flange at the downpipe outlet. Our 4" Powerstroke Delete Pipe is mandrel-bent from 304 stainless.
- Tuner: EZ Lynk Auto Agent 3.0 with SOTF (Shift-On-The-Fly) support. Ford's ECM is generally more accessible than Ram or GM — no bench unlock needed on most 2011-2019 models. 2020+ may require unlock.
- EGR Kit: Powerstroke EGR delete with cooler bypass. The Ford EGR cooler sits in the valley of the engine — budget 4-6 hours for removal.
- CCV Reroute: While not strictly required, a CCV reroute kit is highly recommended on the 6.7L Powerstroke. The factory CCV dumps oil vapor into the intake, which cokes the intake valves over time.
- Gaskets: Downpipe flange gasket (OEM p/n BC3Z-9450-A), two 4" exhaust gaskets.
The "While You're In There" List
These aren't mandatory, but if you're already under the truck, they're worth doing:
- Exhaust Manifold Gaskets: If your truck has 100k+ miles and you hear a ticking sound on cold start, your manifold gaskets are probably leaking. Replace them while the downpipe is off.
- Turbo Oil Feed Line: 2011-2014 Powerstroke models have a known issue with the turbo oil feed line cracking. Replace it preventatively.
- Upgraded Intercooler Boots: Factory boots balloon under higher boost after tuning. Silicone boots with T-bolt clamps prevent blow-offs.
- Pyrometer Probe: If you're installing an EGT gauge, drill and tap the exhaust manifold or downpipe before reinstalling. Much easier on the bench.
Parts Budget: Budget vs Premium
| Part | Budget Option | Price Range | Premium Option | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delete Pipe | Aluminized steel | $150-250 | 304 stainless, mandrel bent | $200-350 |
| Tuner | Used AutoCal V2 | $300-500 | New EZ Lynk 3.0 + custom tunes | $800-1,200 |
| EGR Kit | Block-off plates only | $50-100 | Full delete with coolant bypass | $200-400 |
| Gaskets & Hardware | Reuse old (not recommended) | $0 | All new OEM gaskets + stainless hardware | $50-100 |
| Total (parts only) | $500-850 | $1,250-2,100 |
Labor adds $500-1,200 depending on shop rate and complexity. DIY saves $500+ but budget a full weekend.
Common Parts People Forget
- Exhaust Clamps: Factory clamps are often rusted solid. New band clamps are $15-25 each. Buy spares.
- Anti-Seize Compound: Stainless steel on stainless steel galls. Always use nickel-based anti-seize on threads.
- O2 Sensor Bung Plug: Some delete pipes include the bung; some don't. Confirm before ordering.
- Exhaust Hangers: Rubber isolators dry-rot after 5-7 years. If yours are cracked, replace them now.
- Coolant: You'll lose coolant during EGR delete. Have 2 gallons of the correct spec on hand.
FAQ
Can I install just the delete pipe without a tuner?
No. The ECM will immediately detect missing DPF pressure differential and trigger limp mode. The tuner must be installed and flashed before you start the engine after the physical delete.
Do I need an EGR delete if I'm only deleting the DPF?
Not technically required — the truck will run with the EGR intact. However, without the DPF to catch soot, the EGR system will recirculate unfiltered exhaust gas, accelerating intake valve coking. Most delete packages include EGR removal for this reason.
Can I reuse factory exhaust clamps?
If they're not rusted and the threads are clean, yes. But at $15-25 each, new band clamps are cheap insurance against exhaust leaks.
How long does a complete delete install take?
DPF pipe only: 2-4 hours. DPF + EGR: 6-10 hours. First-timer with hand tools: budget a full weekend.
Do I need a lift?
A lift helps enormously but isn't required. Jack stands + creeper work fine. The hardest part without a lift is breaking loose the downpipe-to-turbo bolts — some are accessible only from the top.
Get Your Complete Delete Kit
Shop our full range of DPF delete pipes for Ram, Ford, and Duramax:
- Ram 6.7L Cummins 4" DPF/CAT Delete Pipe — $219.99
- Duramax L5P 4" DPF/CAT Race Pipe — $249.99
- Ford 6.7L Powerstroke 4" DPF/CAT Delete Pipe — $199.99
- Ram 6.7L Cummins 5" Full Exhaust System — $629.99
- L5P Duramax 3.5" Turbo Downpipe — $179.99
- 5" Universal Diesel Muffler — $119.99
Other Resources
- What Tuner Do You Need After a DPF Delete?
- DPF Delete vs Full Exhaust: Cost, Power & Sound Comparison
- 5 DPF Delete Installation Mistakes That Cost You Power
- Exhaust Backpressure & EGT: The Science Explained
Legal Disclaimer: DPF/CAT/EGR delete products are intended for off-road and competition use only. Removing emissions equipment from vehicles operated on public roads violates the Clean Air Act in the United States and similar regulations in Canada. Cavusheo assumes no responsibility for misuse. Always check local laws before modifying your vehicle.